A world-class intercultural educational organization; a global movement to develop and activate global citizens AFS Intercultural Programs India is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world.
Newsletter AFS Intercultural Programs India
JUNE
2017
Issue - VI
Your source to stay up to date with AFS Intercultural Programs India’s activities, events & opportunities www.india.afs.org | india@afs.org
study abroad
host an AFSer
Discover new things about yourself and find your place in the world. Learn how to turn challenging situations into valuable opportunities to grow and become more mature.
Hosting an international student in your home is a great way to learn about a new culture and share your own culture and values. Experience your world through the eyes of a young person from another country.
Inside this Issue
2
From Director’s Desk You have to be very clever to do simple things!
2
AFS Perspectives Globalizing Citizenship Education
3
Intercultural Learning Interaction with our Partners
4
Orientations Pre-Departure & Re-Entry
5
Alumni Achievements
5
YES Stories & Experiences A Life in a Suitcase
6
PEACE Seminar Peace in Europe and Asia through global Citizenship Education
AFS Intercultural Programs India Anand Bhawan, 12, Hailey Road, New Delhi - 110001 Phone Number -+ 91-11-42512498/41501672/41540827
volunteer
schools
Join a Global community of changemakers and people like you. Serve as a change agent in your community. Change the world by changing minds.
A world-class intercultural education organization. AFS helps the world learn to live together.
upcoming
7
International Volunteer Exchange Programs
8
SENTIO Programs Internship with The Intern Group
8
events July NSLI-Y Arrival Orientation AFS Program Re-Entry Orientation
August YES Gateway Orientation SENTIO: Global Competency - Guiding the Way into the 21st Century
SENTIO Stories & Experiences Real Essence of Life
Banner Image: PEACE Seminar Participants & Trainers with India Staffers at AFS India National Office
Edited & Designed by Aadil F.
For any Suggestions or sharing stories & experiences, reach us at: aadil.fahim@afs.org
AFS Intercultural Programs India | June 2017 | Page No - 1 www.india.afs.org | india@afs.org
are in angry situation walk away. You have received a horrible mail – walk away. You do not have to reply to the person. After some time when you come back you would realise that it no big deal and you can deal with it. Do it couple of times and you would see the results.
FROM
DIRECTOR’S DESK
YOU HAVE TO BE VERY CLEVER TO DO SIMPLE THINGS! Divya Arora | National Director How? Think outside your “mental box”! Simple. What does this mean – thinking with different approach. Thinking something new, finding solution to problem that is unique and would have not come to our mind naturally. We all can do it – it is not difficult at all. If we can think outside our “mental box” we may get better ideas to be happy, successful and reduce our stress, which we all want. Let us think of some ideas: Remember not to “say” to get even! It may feel good for a while but in the process you make an enemy. For happiness, you need more and more friends. In case you
AFS
PERSPECTIVES
- Helping the world learn to live together -
Make forgiveness your permanent attitude, a habit. Forgive and forget. It pays in the long run. Have an attitude – let it go. There is no fun in taking revenge or keeping negative thoughts in mind. It would only harm us both mentally and physically. Not worth it. Well, think of similar ideas and try to implement same. Excerpts from the book by Mr. Promod Batra
Accept some level of ‘dust’ in life! It means to accept the unacceptable some times. Every job you do cannot be 100% good. Don’t make the best the enemy of better and accept second best as well! Sometimes the best is not acceptable. Do not worry about it. If you feel that you have given your best then accept it and move ahead.
If we can think outside our “mental box” we may get better ideas to be happy, successful and reduce our stress
Learn to say “no” and accept “no”. This way you will avoid many stresses and headaches. You can’t do “very well” everything every time. Do your best and leave the rest. If you are happy with the hard work that has gone in the project then it is good and accept it. Give and take and give. This way you will make more friends. Go out of the way to do jobs for others to make “credit balance” in your account. Helping a friend in need is always rewarding. You will feel good and happy. My father every morning would every day ask all of us
Globalizing Citizenship Education
The notions of global citizens and their education are often posed in a strongly debated context of disputed definitions, unclear rights and responsibilities, and vague implications for practitioners. Without trying to impose an all-encompassing solution to this debate, we would like to locate these concepts in the context of AFS, its volunteers, staff and program participants. Global citizenship is a concept that uses and then builds on the classical notion of citizenship, which entails certain rights, responsibilities and allegiance to a sovereign state. The responsibilities of global citizens however, are not tied to one specific state, but rather expand to the global community, leading to what is usually termed as “a sense of connectedness and belonging extended to all of humanity”. A global citizen thus has an increased awareness of the needs of others and acts in a way that contributes to and improves the lives of others with a sense of commitment to social justice at the local, national, and international levels. From this notion stems the idea of global citizenship education. Global citizenship education is a paradigm which frames the development of knowledge, skills, values and attitudes learners need for securing a world which is more just, peaceful, tolerant, inclusive, secure and sustainable. This concept also recognizes that global citizens cannot appear and thrive on their own, but that there is a need for their education to help them understand various social and cultural issues beyond their local realities. This education does not stop only at the level of acquiring knowledge, but also moves to the realm of building necessary skills, values and attitudes. When properly educated, global citizens are a part of something more than one culture or nationality, contributing to the world in a meaningful and constructive way.
Copied from volume 5, issue 3 of the AFS Intercultural Link news magazine.
AFS Intercultural Programs India | June 2017 | Page No - 2 www.india.afs.org | india@afs.org
Do one thing at a time. You will do it well and it will be rewarding in the long run. A juggler playing with balls focuses on one ball at a time. If he thinks of many others in the air, he will drop the one! Every morning when I come to office I make a list of all the things I need to accomplish. Once task is completed I put a big tick mark on them which makes me feel happy and motivated. Result: most of the evenings all my assignments are done, and I go home happy.
individually how he can help us. He was always there for us which made us feel special and protected.
AFS mission which tasks our volunteers and staff to provide intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world emphasizes our ongoing dedication to putting global citizenship education in practice through different opportunities AFS provides. Global citizenship education is also part of our Educational Goals aiming to develop the participants’ cultural and global awareness by providing immersive learning experiences in new environments combined with regular reflection and coaching. On the one hand, participants of AFS programs build their global competences through structured and guided experiential learning while exploring a foreign culture. On the other hand, AFS volunteers and staff work of their own education and competency development, including through convening with other civil society and youth representatives to discuss globally relevant topics, as is the case during the AFS Centennial Celebrations. Global citizenship education includes overlapping areas of human rights education, peace education, education for sustainable development and education for international understanding. It allows different approaches in different geographic areas and it fosters: • an understanding of multiple levels and layers of identity • a knowledge of global issues and values such as justice, equality, dignity and respect • cognitive skills such as critical thinking and the ability to shift perspectives • non-cognitive skills including empathy and effective communication across cultures • collaborative and responsible approach to solving global challenges, while striving for the collective good. Intercultural competence which enables effective functioning across cultures is composed of specific
knowledge, skills and attitudes and is also essential for global citizenship. The development of intercultural competence overlaps with the universal values of the global citizens, committed to helping build a more peaceful, just, and equitable world. However, an interculturally competent person who doesn’t act for the benefit of others is not essentially a global citizen. This is where the work of educators and AFS becomes vital: preparing learners not only for personal development or successful careers but also for awareness, care and effective participation in the global community. The critical role of educators and educational organizations like AFS plays in developing global citizens is also underscored by Milton Bennett, a leading expert in intercultural matters: “Intercultural sensitivity is not natural. It is not part of our primate past, nor has it characterized most of human history. Cross-cultural contact usually has been accompanied by bloodshed, oppression or genocide. The continuation of this pattern in today’s world of unimagined interdependence is not just immoral or unprofitable – it is self-destructive… Education and training in intercultural communication is an approach to changing ‘natural’ behavior.” References: •
• • •
Ashwill, M.A, Du’o’ng, T.H.O. (2009). Developing Globally Competent Citizens: The Contrasting Cases of the United States and Vietnam. In SAGE Handbook of Intercultural Competence (pp. 141 – 157). Thousand Oaks, California, USA: SAGE Publications. Bennett, M. (1993). Towards Ethnorelativism: A Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity. In Education for the Intercultural Experience. Yarmouth, Maine, USA: Intercultural Press. Delors, J. (1996). Learning: The Treasure Within. Paris, France: UNESCO. UNESCO. (2014). Global Citizenship Education: Preparing learners for the challenges of the twenty-first century. Paris, France: UNESCO.
INTERCULTURAL LEARNING
- Interaction with our Partners -
Conversations with Ann’Andreza Martins, Partner Director of AFS Intercultura Brazil Interviewed by Divya Arora, National Director, AFS India
Ann’Andreza Martins is the National Director of AFS Intercultura Brazil, an international voluntary non-governmental, non-profit organization that operates exchanges and provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the skills needed to create a more just and peaceful world. With more than 15 years of experience in international education, Ms. Martins has a degree in International Relations and Child Development by West Virginia University and a Masters in Social Work and Public Health by Boston University. With extensive experience in international public agencies, her professional trajectory includes organizations such as the Massachusetts Department of Social Services and the Harvard Teaching Hospital in the U.S. as well as the Fulbright Commission and EducationUSA in Brazil. Currently enrolled in the governance and public policy program sponsored by the Banco de Desarrollo de America Latina, she is researching how local educational policy is taking into account the future PISA evaluation on global citizenship competence. Andreza is a mother to Marina (21), who is a law student and will be studying European law in the Netherlands next semester and AFS mother to Lisa (20) studying Fashion Design in Vienna. She is married to Afonso Claudio, AC, a jazz saxophone player and professor at the federal university in Rio.
this topic and there is Venezuelan Scholar at Harvard, Fernando Reimmers who talks about the great paradox of education in our times. He says that since the Declaration of Human Rights and the emphasis on education, most countries in the world have developed “a legal framework and a set of institutions that ensure that most children begin school and spend in them several years in the early stages of their lives.” But in spite of the great institutional capacity of schools they have not been able, in the most part, to prepare students to “address the global challenges and opportunities shared with their fellow world citizens” (Educating for Global Competency, Fernando Reimmers). Personally, I do feel that as a society we have attributed excessive responsibility to school almost as if education and schools were synonyms, but we know that is not the case. Education is a societal effort and a considerable part of this happens in schools, but it is not fair to expect them to do it all alone. So, my view is that schools need partners and supporters to help them deliver all that society expects and certainly, intercultural competence is such an area where organizations like AFS can be of great support to schools.
How do you feel that AFS as an organization can contribute to fostering intercultural competence around What initiatives has AFS Brazil undertaken to shape the the world especially during these times of uncertainty? international education worldwide? I see we have key spaces where we can be:
Relating to these two spaces we feel we can act – schools and communities – we have identified a few strategies. In schools – creating opportunities for contact, For communities, we are working with a model we interaction and reflection in the school community. call Efeito +, which was developed in partnership with AFS helps schools to open their doors to the world and AFS INT around the World Congress in Rio. In this supports them in structured ways to make the classroom model, we link Global Competence (GC) as a key skill a laboratory for learning to live together. for attaining the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs). We partner locally with public and private entities In communities – In Brazil, each community is at a to promote a day of reflection with teenagers on the 4 different stage, some are very aware and feel the need to 5 SDSs that are more relevant to their community to develop intercultural competencies as this already Clean Water, Gender Equality, etc. - they chose among affects their daily lives. Others are very homogenous the 17 SDGS. We bring GC skills as a way to do things and the mere expression intercultural competence has and as a perspective to take into consideration in all no translation or real meaning to them. In this case, we actions they decide to undertake. As for schools, we need to identify these stages and promote activities feel there is a key opportunity worldwide that is the fact accordingly. that as of 2018 the PISA test will start measuring Global Competence Skills in addition to math, sciences and In Brazil we play a lot on a key characteristic of our languages! This is an example of how we can be a great culture, curiosity about the other from a novelty partner to schools who cannot do it all alone. AFS can be perspective, then we can explore the cultural other the facilitator for the development of these competencies within us, as we are by definition a very heterogeneous at all levels of the school community. Here schools have society. So, first we develop interest and sensitivity and the opportunity to host a student, a volunteer, organize second, we promote reflection, ultimately inviting people workshop for teachers or whatever else they tell us they to identify small ways in which they can change their might want or need. We go to schools to listen as well. attitudes. We feel these are practices that generate great impact for us and can inspire other AFS organizations to look at Education has always been the key to expanding the what makes sense to them. vision of people. How do you feel intercultural learning incorporated within the educational framework to Any suggestions as to how the intercultural learning help in broadening the overall learning process for can be given due importance/ awareness in lesser individuals? explored areas so as to reach out for more openness and awareness in obtaining intercultural learning. Intercultural Competence, Global Citizenship Competence no matter what you call it, this is a It was Lord Kelvin – famous physicist that said –If you key priority for 21st century education and life in a cannot measure it, you cannot improve it. The decision sustainable world. I have been reading a lot about 4 of the OECD to start measuring Global Citizenship
Competence in the PISA 2018 will be a game changer for this field in the realm of education worldwide. We will have our hands full and need to be ready to step up. Schools are important partners in growth of AFS programs. How has AFS involved schools in country to make them strong partners? What are some kinds of activities that AFS has been doing to improve school relationships, and can be an example for others in the field of Global Education? Brazil is a country marked by great inequality and I believe that is the case in many upcoming economies. To begin with as an institution, we have a commitment to partner with both private and public schools and have formal agreements with a network of federal public schools that strive for excellence but provide free public education. From a structural perspective, we have a school responsible staff member who also supports and develops volunteers focused on this role. From a communication perspective, we have a dedicated space on our website and a newsletter to educators. This year we will offer scholarships for teachers to go on short term programs within Latin America and attend educational conferences. From a program perspective, we are developing a section of Sentio programs to focus on volunteering/interning in a school setting and we run Efeito + workshops in partnership with local schools. Volunteers are the pillars when it comes to the functioning of AFS. What can more initiatives be brought forth to garner motivation amongst the volunteers? We do not need to motivate our volunteers, they come to AFS because they are motivated by the ability to impact the world in big and small ways. We have to be careful not to demotivate them and we need to allow the organization to be moved by their motivation. Basically, we need to create structured channels for this motivation to flow and generate the impact they dream – a more just and peaceful world. How has the AFS experienced/helped you? The intercultural experience I had as high school student was a life changing experience that created meaning for most of the things I have chosen to do with my life after that. This is a common feeling for many people in this organization. What AFS did for me was to give me a place to take this to a professional level, to allow me to work in worldwide community of like-minded professionals and people with whom I learn so much every day. Lately, probably because of age, half a century coming around the corner, and because of state of the worlds developments I have felt a real need to gain scale in what we do. I believe the AFS experience can also give us that – Connecting Lives Sharing Cultures - Broader Reach Deeper Impact. It is a joy and a privilege to work in a place with a tag line I can print on my business card and tattoo in my heart.
AFS Intercultural Programs India | June 2017 | Page No - 3 www.india.afs.org | india@afs.org
ORIENTATION
YES National Pre-Departure Orientation for 2017-18 Batch The YES Batch of 2017-18 came under one roof to attend a National Pre-Departure Orientation Camp in New Delhi from 6th June to 8th June 2017 in New Delhi. The event was organized for 3 days with the participation of total 36 students going on this program. This program is sponsored by US Department of State. The aim of the orientation was to guide and prepare the students for the program before their departure in August 2017. There were AFS Staff members and AFS Alumni to facilitate the sessions. The sessions focused on:
valuable suggestions and experiences.
(Photo Above: YES & AFS Group of Participants)
National Pre-Departure Orientation for 2017-18 Batch
reality check. Participants along with AFS India Staffer visited respective Embassy (Italy, France, Portugal, Finland and Switzerland) of the country they’d be going for their exchange to gain deeper insight about the culture, interact with the officers & learn from their experiences.
• Setting the students expectation from the Program and converting them into goals, • AFS and Camp Rules along with Etiquettes, • Line of Communication Channel, • Iceberg Concept of Culture and Tips for adapting in New Culture & for Successful Exchange, • How to adjust in Host School & Host Family, • 3 Risk Management, • Indian Traditions,
The AFS Year Student Exchange Program Batch of 2017-18 came together to attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Camp in New Delhi from 6th to 9th June, 2017. It was a 4-day camp with a total of 26 AFS Program Participants, going to USA, Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland, Costa Rica, Finland, Denmark, Austria, Canada, Hungary & Portugal. This is the first time AFS India is sending participants to Hungary and Portugal on an yearlong program.
New Methodologies like Case Studies along with very creative Icebreakers and Energizers were adopted to carry out the sessions which made participants interact and take active participation. Intercultural components were added to give more exposure to the participants about being on exchange programs and how ICL can help them achieve their goals overall. On the other hand, the participants were filling up the DS160 form for the VISA purpose.
We had AFS India Staff members and AFS Alumni to facilitate the sessions. The concept of Educational Goals and Intercultural Learning was explained to the participants, so that the participants should have a deeper understanding of goals of the programs and cultural of the host country they’d be going for a year. The sessions conducted were same as YES Pre-Departure Orientation as YES & AFS participants were together during all sessions.
Participants were enthused to be part of the program, In addition to YES session, we took the Language Test 1 and they look forward to being on program. Thanks to the and conducted the Country Specific Quiz also for the alumni for being part of the orientation and sharing their
(Photo Above: Switzerland Embassy Visit) We’re thankful to the embassies for giving us their precious time, and thanks to all the alumni for being part of the orientation and sharing their experiences.
YES Re-Entry Orientation for 2016-17 Batch An enthusiastic group of 37 YES students of 2016-17 batch were welcomed at the Delhi airport on 16th June by AFS India staffers. All the students stayed till 19th June to be part of the re-entry orientation in New Delhi. The orientation sessions mainly focused on reverse cultural shock and the tips for re- adjustment in the school and society. Throughout the orientation, various sessions were conducted. They are: • • • • • • •
Expectations, Why I Am Here, What I Gave and What I received, Good and Different Experiences, Common Challenges and Solutions, My Achievements, One to One Interaction,
With other sessions, goals for next 3 months were discussed with the students. They were also shown their before and after picture which left them surprised and amazed with the changes in them. Largely, the participants had a wonderful experience and they enjoyed their stay back in their host country. On the 19th June, the students had a chance to visit American Centre and interact with the US Embassy Official Mr Craig Dicker, Public Affairs Officer (Acting)/Cultural Affairs Officer (U.S. Embassy, New Delhi) and Mr. Matthew AFS Intercultural Programs India | June 2017 | Page No - 4 www.india.afs.org | india@afs.org
Asada, First Secretary for Exchanges and Education (U.S. Embassy, New Delhi). The students shared their experiences with them. The officials also informed them about various opportunities available for them.
(Photo Above: YES Group) We wish all the students best of luck for their future, and we look forward to having them part of AFS India family as an alumni!
ICL Level W Training
ALUMNI
ACHIEVEMENTS
YES FOUNDATION Media for Social Change Fellowship
(Photo Above: Alumni Together) (Photo Above: During training) Chaitanya Gokhale (YES’13) from Pune was one of the supporting facilitator for ICL Level W training that took place in Anand chapter on 11 June 2017. The training was conducted for the volunteers of Anand and around 20 of them participated. The alumna was supporting one of the senior facilitator, Ajay Mehta, in taking the session. Chaitanya has also appeared for National Qualified Trainer training this year.
(Photo Above: YES FOUNDATION Media for Social Change Fellows - Bengaluru Cohort) YES Foundation in association with ISDI-WPP School of Communication has introduced this high impact YES FOUNDATION Media for Social Change fellowship program in 3 different cities: Bangalore, Delhi and Mumbai from May-July 2017. The aim is to develop socially conscious youth leadership. High potential youth will be trained by industry leaders followed by an intensive 7-week placement in NGOs. The Fellows will lead well-defined projects to strengthen communication efforts of Non-Profits to maximize their social impact. Swetabh Kumar and Akash Kumar (YES’14) have been selected for this opportunity. Swetabh is placed in Bangalore while Akash is doing his fellowship in Delhi.
Digital Marketing Workshop The Digital Marketing Workshop was organized by The Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Consulate General, Chennai on 29 June 2017. It was attended by group of around 30 alumni who have been on the exchange programs and are now student or working professionals in varied fraternities. YES alumni: Iqbal Basha, Ranjith Gopi and Prasanna Ramamurthy (YES’10); Mohamed Himayathullah (YES’12); Karthik Raja (YES’14). Ms. Chithra Jaishankar, an Alumni Outreach Coordinator, U.S. Consulate General, Chennai made a welcome speech to the group. The workshop was led by Mr. Kiruba
the first time I saw my host family; my host mom was standing there with a bag full of candies and balloons. I wasn’t sure if I should go for a hug or a handshake, but she made that decision by giving me a tight, warm hug.
Impact of
YES
PROGRAMS A Life in a Suitcase by Harsh Gajjar, YES India 2016-17, hosted with World Link in Illinois “It all started with a dream, a dream of a 16-year old teenager who had never been out of his country or away from home for more than a week. It was about a year ago when I heard about exchange programs and I made the decision to apply right away. It was the best decision of my life, but it also had it’s challenges. The selection process was difficult, but it helped me learn a lot about myself. When I was notified that I was selected as a finalist for this program, my happiness had no limit and I jumped with excitement. I started preparing for the best year of my life. As the departure date came closer, I started feeling nervous and uneasy. I was excited but at the same time there was a lot of anxiety. I was a young teen who didn’t even make his own bed at that time and I realized that I was going to spend the next 10 months of my life at a place where nobody knows my name. It required a lot of courage to say good bye to my family and friends. My parents were more worried than I was. I knew I had a long journey ahead of myself and I had to make the most of it, no matter what. I still remember the day I landed in the US. Everything felt so different. Kilometers changed into miles, Celsius changed into Fahrenheit. Rupees turned into dollars. It was like living on a different planet. I still remember
From the very first day, I started trying new stuff. I was a vegan, but wanted to try a chicken sandwich. Turns out, it’s one of my favorite foods! Little everyday things felt like a challenge, but it helped me to start learning new skills. I washed dishes for the first time. I was doing my own laundry. I was taking care of my own self which was a huge surprise for my parents. My host parents taught me a lot of things. They answered all my questions with patience. I still remember all the memories I have had with my host brother. We had a great year together. When nobody could give me a ride, he always gives me a ride anywhere. It’s like an angel from heaven to me. We would wear same clothes, we would sing together, he taught me guitar. We would do all sorts of crazy stuff together. We would have our brotherly fights but would always defend each other. Each memory has a special place in my heart. From those exciting times when mom asks what I want for dinner, I would of course shout, “Wendy’s” at the top of my voice! When my host dad would try to explain a sport I didn’t (and still don’t) understand. I’ll always remember traveling to different places with the whole family. Each and every little memory matters. Some people think that an exchange year is only full of fun and games, but that is not the truth. I had to face a lot of obstacles like homesickness, getting used to this new foreign culture, overcoming the language barrier, and most of all, deal with the extra homework. What was once a normal, everyday thing became more of a challenge. I got used to being out of my comfort zone, but halfway through my year, I went through a phase where I started to get tired. I had many people who supported me that helped me out at that time. One person was my friend Yuri; another exchange student in my town. He knew and had experienced all of the same ‘exchange student problems’ I was facing.
Shankar, CEO of Business Blogging, a leading social media consulting firm (He has 21 years of experience in the digital space and is a Professor of Digital Marketing and has authored five books). The main topics of digital marketing covered during the workshop were: Concept and Importance of Branding, How to use the digital platform in an efficient way to build the business, Elevator Pitch, How the Google Algorithm works, How to start to speak up and make short videos of what you do and so on. The speaker used lot of real life examples of people, what they did and how they followeed by lot of tips. It was more of an interactive session. There was also a group discussion on What makes a business unique or what is that really needed that we can implement in real life. The workshop was very informative for everyone from a complete beginner to a business entrepreneur. The alumni found it really useful in terms of their career development. Last but not the least, the workshop also served as a platform for networking for people from different segments.
We helped each other by volunteering in our host community and this motivated me during my bad times. At times when I felt helpless, the goal we set of getting at least 100 community service hours each rejuvenated me and my passions. I was able to achieve my goal and it gave me a great feeling of satisfaction. I stayed focused and was awarded recognition for it at the end of my exchange year. I experienced a lot of new things here. I met new people and made new friendships I know will last forever. Most of all, I gained a second family who loves me and cares about me. One of my favorite things for me here was my host school. I loved walking down those packed hallways and using those cool American handshakes with the friends in the hallways. I’ll always remember being completely lost on the first day of school and asking a lot of questions because I had no Idea where I was supposed to be. All my teachers were so supportive and were always willing to help me. After all the ups and downs, I was finally starting to feel like I wanted to stay here longer, but then came my return travel date announcement. I started getting a strange feeling. It feels like it went by so quickly. I feel like if I had a chance to go back in time, I would do it all over again, even if I had to go through hardships again. And yet, here I am, attempting to fit a LIFE in a suitcase. I am already starting to get a feeling of emptiness after seeing my other exchange friends leave. This exchange program helped me know my true self and my abilities. I have a different point of view to everything now. I came here as a stone and it carved a diamond out of me. I am a completely different person now and all the credit goes to YES program. Looking back at all these memories, I am happy with all the memories I made. A part of me will always stay here. This experience will stay with me for my entire life. As many people say, “It’s not a year in a life, it’s a life in a year”.
AFS Intercultural Programs India | June 2017 | Page No - 5 www.india.afs.org | india@afs.org
PEACE PROJECT STEERING GROUP MEETING (DELHI)
PEACE SEMINAR
Peace in Europe and Asia through global Citizenship Education (Photo Above: Teambuilding Exercise)
PEACE Project activities - study visits, seminar, steering group meeting In June several activities took place in the PEACE Project : (1) the European project participants were invited by the Asian project partners for study visits all over Asia ; (2) after the country visits all participants joined for a week-long seminar in Delhi, India ; (3) the seminar was followed by the project’s Steering Group’s second meeting, also in Delhi.
The Steering Group wants to congratulate and thank the IPP Negros Occidental Chapter in the Philippines for designing the winning logo in the contest that was launched to create the new (future) programme’s visual identity.
THE PEACE PROJECT The PEACE project runs over two years, 2017 and 2018. PEACE stands for “Peace in Europe and Asia through global Citizenship Education”. The EFIL project is sponsored by the European Commission’s Erasmus+ programme. The goal of the project is to design the framework for a new sustainable three-month secondary school exchange programme similar to the intra-European “European Citizenship Trimester Programme” (ECTP) which EFIL has been running successfully each year since it was launched in 2009. In the PEACE programme trimester exchanges will take place between Asia and Europe, with end-of-stay camps on global citizenship in Europe (Brussels) and in Asia (Kuala Lumpur). The target group will be secondary school students between 15-18 years old. The programme will be open to all EFIL and AAI Partners. The PEACE project participants are staff and key volunteers of 8 European AFS organisations (EFIL members) and 7 Asian AFS partners (AAI members). Throughout the two years of the EU sponsored project, they will play a relevant role in the development of the future PEACE programme.
Right after the closing of the seminar, the PEACE Steering Group met for its second project meeting. Focus was on sharing the outcomes of the seminar and assessment of the follow-up work, including communication with the Partners. An important agenda point was the December seminar in Brussels, Belgium, that will be attended by the same group of project participants as in Delhi. The Brussels seminar has been scheduled to overlap partly with the ECTP Brussels Camp, giving the PEACE project participants the opportunity to learn from it and reflect, putting together ideas for the future programme and the closing camps in resp. Brussels and Kuala Lumpur. As part of the PEACE project, a pilot programme will involve Asian youngsters going for a trimester exchange to various countries in Europe with an end-of-stay camp in Brussels in the spring of 2018, followed by European participants going to Asia in the autumn of 2018 and ending their trimester stay with a joint closing camp in Malaysia.
(Photo Above: Session Preparation)
(Photo Above: Steering Committee)
(Photo Above: Sharing of experiences from Study Visit)
Last but not least, the Steering Group is happy to announce that the PEACE Program has been granted “innovation status” by the President of AFS International (see Board of Trustees Policy “Incentives for Innovation”, adopted 29 January 2011 and amended 14 November 2014). We are very grateful for this recognition. Members of the PEACE Steering Group are: Divya Arora (AFS India), Armieyah (Mae) Ayob (AFS Philippines), Katharina Schulze-Herking (AFS Germany), Inga Menke (EFIL) and Paul Claes (EFIL).
PEACE PROJECT SEMINAR (DELHI) The PEACE Project Seminar (18-24 June, New Delhi) brought together 16 European and Asian project participants from 14 countries. The European participants had previously been on a one week study visit in different Asian countries where they explored the local realities of the Asian partner by visiting local schools and NGOs
(Photo Above: Bollywood Night)
(Photo Above: Group)
(Photo Above: Dr. Sumer Singh with the group) and engaging with the local AFS volunteers. The Seminar in New Delhi aimed at sharing and discussing the experiences of the study visits, exploring the concept of Global Citizenship and most importantly designing the outline and content of the future PEACE trimester programme. The study visits were enriching, but also revealed the very different local realities that will need to 9 be taken into consideration for the future programme. For the discussion on Global Citizenship an external speaker, Dr. Sumer Singh, former school Principal and member of the Board of AFS India, gave an inspiring talk on education and Global Citizenship. The participants then set out to design an innovative and ambitious programme outline while always considering the different local realities in the partner organisations. The new programme will incorporate personal ‘Global Citizenship’ projects for all participants based on close cooperation with schools and other stakeholders in the local hosting and sending communities. AFS Intercultural Programs India | June 2017 | Page No - 6 www.india.afs.org | india@afs.org
(Photo Above: Participants showing their Heena) Looking back on a successful week, everyone returned home with a long to-do-list, as the group will continue 11 working online until the next Project Seminar in Brussels in December. The close cooperation between Asian and European partners and the very amical atmosphere in the seminar was very much appreciated by the whole group. AFS India was an amazing host and made everyone feel at home while also introducing the group to Indian traditions, such as henna tattoos, the art of bargaining at markets or Bollywood dance moves.
(Photo Above: Sharing certificates & thanking)
APPLY TODAY to be part of
INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
Interested in being part of Interntional Volunteer Exchange? Apply today to be part of a different culture & traditions, to see the world from different perspective, make new friends and to discover yourself! Upcoming opportunities: Volunteer Exchange to Switzerland The land of Alps. Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a federal republic in Europe. It consists of 26 cantons, and the city of Bern is the seat of the federal authorities. The country is situated in westernCentral Europe, and is bordered by Italy to the south, France to the west, Germany to the north, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Switzerland is a landlocked country geographically divided between the Alps, the Swiss Plateau and the Jura. While the Alps occupy the greater part of the territory, the Swiss population of approximately eight million people is concentrated mostly on the plateau, where the largest cities are to be found: among them are the two global cities and economic centers Zürich and Geneva. The volunteer exchange program will take place in Zurich. Swiss culture is characterized by diversity, which is reflected in a wide range of traditional customs. Hosting in India -25th September-9th October, 2017 Sending by India-9th October- 22nd October, 2017 Volunteer Exchange to Hungary Hungary is one of the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world, with a capital regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world. Despite its relatively small size, Hungary has numerous World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Biosphere reserves, the second largest thermal lake in the world (Lake Hévíz), the largest lake in Central Europe (Lake Balaton), and the largest natural grassland in Europe (Hortobágy). Hungary has a rich folk crafts tradition, for example: embroidery, decorated pottery and
carvings. Hungary has a rich and colorful literature with many poets and writers although not many are known abroad due to the limited prevalence of the Hungarian language. Some noted authors include Sándor Márai and Imre Kertész, who have been gaining acclaim in recent decades Hosting in India- September 25 - October 8, 2017 Sending by India- April 14-27, 2018 Volunteer Exchange to Mexico Known as Architectural Wonders, Mexico is a country between the U.S. and Central America that’s known for its Pacific and Gulf of Mexico beaches and its diverse landscape of mountains, deserts and jungles. Ancient ruins such as Teotihuacán and the Mayan city of Chichén Itzá are scattered throughout the country, as are Spanish colonial-era towns. In capital Mexico City, upscale shops, renowned museums and gourmet restaurants cater to modern life. AFS India hosted 12 volunteers from AFS Mexico at Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar and Baroda Chapter. The hosting at Mexico is deemed to happen in January/ February 2018. Hosting by India-February, 2017 (Already completed) Sending from India- 27th January-10th February, 2018 Volunteer Exchange to Brazil Brazil, a vast South American country, stretches from the Amazon Basin in the north to vineyards and massive Iguaçu Falls in the south. Sprawling across half of South America, Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world. White-sand beaches, tropical islands, music-filled metropolises and charming colonial towns are dotting its 7,500 km (4,600 mi) long coastline. Inland, Brazil tourist attractions consist of imposing waterfalls, wetlands filled with wildlife, and the untouched wilderness of the Amazon rainforest where several isolated tribes still live without any contact with the rest of the world.
Hosting in India- Feb-March, 2018 Sending by India- August 2018 EVA Program to Czech Republic The volunteer exchange program is giving an opportunity to the Host Mothers to meet their peers from the beautiful country of Czech Republic. The country is known for its ornate castles, native beers and long history. Prague, the capital, is home to grand 9th-century Prague Castle, a preserved medieval old town and statuelined Charles Bridge. Hosting in India- Between 27th November- 17th December, 2017 Sending by India-May/June, 2018 Selection Criteria: • One has to be a registered volunteer and active – both at local level and/or national level for past 1-2 year. • Should be willing to take part in both hosting and sending of the Volunteer Exchange Program • Preference will be given to those who have not participated in any exchange program earlier • One has to continue being active in the chapter for a minimum of 1 year after attending this Volunteer Exchange Program • Should have filled “AFS and You form”. • Should have decent English speaking skills. The volunteer is responsible for all the expenses which include travel, visa and other incidental costs. AFS India is happy to provide scholarship opportunities to deserving applicants.* For more information, get in touch with Aadil Fahim (aadil.fahim@afs.org) or Priya Sen (priya.sen@afs.org) *T&C Apply
AFS Intercultural Programs India | June 2017 | Page No - 7 www.india.afs.org | india@afs.org
• FIFA (Hospitality) • Grant Thornton (Accounting)
for visa assistance. Fees (In INR)
Date of Starting: 1st Saturday of every month
Hong Kong 6 weeks to 24 weeks (454480-1047535 INR) June to Aug (473110-1095145 INR)
Requirements:
SENTIO Programs Internship Program with The Intern Group AFS India is offering internship program in various world class cities in partnership with The Intern Group. Field of Internship: Architecture; Art, Museum; Business, Accounting; Consulting, Entrepreneurship; Engineering, Science; Environmental; Fashion; Finance; Government, Politics; Hospitality, Events, Tourism; Human Resources; IT, web design; Journalism, Media, Publishing; Law; Medical/Public Health; NGOs, Non-Profits Organisation; Photography, Design (graphic, interior); PR, Marketing, Advertising, Communication; Real Estate; and Theatre, Music, Television, Film, Video Cities/Destinations: Colombia, Berlin, London, Melbourne, Hong Kong, Madrid, New York, Shanghai, Dublin Partner/Companies: • • • •
Ban Colombia (Finance) BTG Pactual (Finance) Santandar (Finance) Quintessentially (PR & Marketing)
SENTIO
STORIES & EXPERIENCES Real Essence of Life
• Age: 18+ • Language: For London and Melbourne English to IELTS 6.5 only • and For Madrid Colombia English to IELTS 6
London 6 weeks to 24 weeks (359835-882395 INR) June 17th -1st July (398015-978535 INR)
Last Date of Application: At least 17 weeks before departure date
Dublin 6 weeks to 24 weeks (338330-744280 INR) June-July (355120-755665 INR)
Inclusions: • A top internship in either your 1st or 2nd preference industry of choice. • Cultural immersion through organized events and activities. • Airport pick and drop • High quality accommodation • 24/7 local support • Professional development tools, training and workshop • Transportation cost in destination countries Not Included: Airfare, Visa fee, Meals, Travel and Medical Insurance Orientations: All participants will be provided GCC (Global Competence Certificate). It is an educational program that explores intercultural theories and models through active experimentation in a new cultural environment and deep reflection with a facilitator. It equips you with the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to interact effectively in a global and cross cultural environment. Visa Info: Kindly get in touch with the respective embassy about myself. Daily waking up early in the morning to practice Yoga and Meditation helps me kick-start my day with positive energy. I cycle everyday total 30mins to and from my workplace, which not only keeps me fit but also allows me to come in contact with nature. It may be sunny, windy, snowy or stormy, I enjoy cycling up the hill to my workplace, Kolping-Berufsbildungswerk. Meeting my colleagues and students everyday of the week makes me really happy. Our team coordination is great and we understand each other very well hence our working spirit is amazing. We imbibe the same positive values in our students. In these past months, I have planned and initiated many activities with my colleagues and students. We often cook Indian, German, Mexican
Berlin 8 weeks to 12 weeks (370990-461035 INR) Melbourne 6 weeks to 24 weeks (355810-846745 INR) June-July (379960-932995 INR) Colombia 6 weeks to 24 weeks (284740-582820 INR) Madrid 6 weeks to 24 weeks (312225-706790 INR) New York 8 weeks to 24 weeks (637445-1404725 INR) Shanghai 6 weeks to 12 weeks (363745-481275 INR) Service Tax will be included in the fees (Subject to change as per government regulation)
For details please contact: Zia Rahman (zia.rahman@afs.org)
discussing about world politics during my other initiative of Global Ethics Seminars. Some of the interesting topics already discussed are Global Ethics in the World and at home, Refugee Crisis: History repeats itself, Society yesterday and today and the ill effects of Alcohol: Zero Alcohol, Full Power! After 9 months and counting, I can totally say that Kolping is just not my workplace but it’s my family. I am excited for the rest of my volunteering time in Germany. Well, I would not think twice, if I had to do another year of volunteering and do my little contribution towards a more positive and just world. I was also covered on the local newspaper.
by Sanjana Rastogi, Volunteer, Germany Volunteer Service Program, 16-17 “It’s been more than half a year since I started volunteering in Germany. This experience has given me insights into the ‘other’ diverse and cultural side of the world. Being independent in a country many miles away
(Photo Above: Presenting about India during the 25th Anniversary of Kolping) from home has taught me the real essence of life. I have not only learned about the German culture but also a lot
(Photo Above: Celebrating Christmas with Guest Family)
(Photo Above: Cirus Project in Kolping)
and Italian food, have intercultural conversations, and find big and small differences and similarities between India and Germany for example: one of the culture surprises for the students was learning how to eat with their hands (which they thoroughly enjoyed once they tried it). On the 25th anniversary of my organization, I presented about India. During Christmas festival my students performed Bollywood dance on Chaiya Chaiya & Chammak Challo, which they quickly learned during my first 3 months at Kolping. My students and I enjoy
I have also received admission at University of Oldenburg, Lower Saxony, Germany for doing my further studies. I have been selected under full scholarship to do my Masters degree in Migration and Intercultural Relations. Actually, my volunteering work at Kolping adds value, enhances my work experience and broadens my horizon. So, I would like to thank AFS India, AFS Germany, Kolping and Caritas for giving me this opportunity to volunteer and make a positive contribution to the society. Furthermore, I am really excited to start with my studies in September 2017.”
Have you checked out our new website? 10 AFS Intercultural Programs India | June 2017 | Page No - 8 www.india.afs.org | india@afs.org
Visit today: www.india.afs.org